Columbia DUI Lawyer

Columbia, SC DUI Attorney

Not only is driving under the influence extremely dangerous, but it can also lead to criminal charges that threaten your freedom. Defending against a DUI charge can be difficult, requiring the help of a skilled Columbia, SC DUI lawyer to navigate the complexities of South Carolina’s DUI laws.

Why Choose Deas Law Firm?

Deas Law Firm has over 24 years of experience defending against criminal charges. We know South Carolina’s DUI laws and are committed to building a strong defense.

Our attorneys can minimize the harsh DUI penalties you may be facing. We know a DUI case can be overwhelming, but with our skilled guidance, we can work to protect your rights.

Understanding DUI Cases in South Carolina

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a significant safety threat. Alcohol-impaired driving fatalities average 318 deaths each year in South Carolina, out of over 12,000 deaths nationwide. Columbia drivers face a higher risk on I-20, I-26, and Broad River Road, where DUI accidents are more common.

In South Carolina, you can be charged with a DUI when driving a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. For a DUI charge, it does not matter what your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was, as long as you were under the influence and your driving abilities were impaired.

You may also be charged with driving with an unlawful alcohol concentration (DUAC), which means driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. No matter what your BAC is, a Columbia DUI attorney can work to defend you against the strict consequences of a DUAC or DUI conviction.

Consequences of DUI Conviction in Columbia, SC

There are many negative consequences to a DUI conviction. They vary depending on the severity of your offense, but may include:

• A jail or prison sentence: Ranging from 48 hours to 10 years, jail and prison time are among the most severe penalties.
• Fines: Fines can be $400-$1,000 for a first offense, $2,100-$6,500 for a second offense, and $3,800-$10,000 for a third offense.
• Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID): An IID is required for all convictions to prevent additional offenses.
• License suspension: Most DUI charges come with a license suspension. This ranges between six months and three years.
• A permanent criminal record: A DUI conviction cannot be expunged from your criminal record. This means it is permanently visible to employers, landlords, and law enforcement.
• Drug or alcohol treatment: Educational programs, testing, or treatment are often required for DUI offenders.

Why You Should Hire a DUI Lawyer?

Facing DUI charges in Columbia, SC  without experienced legal representation can be daunting. It also lowers the chances of building an effective legal strategy. A Columbia, SC DUI lawyer can help you by:

• Defending your rights: After an arrest, you have the right to legal counsel, the right against self-incrimination, and the right against unreasonable searches and seizures. A lawyer can communicate with law enforcement on your behalf to prevent unwarranted searches. They are also preventing law enforcement from gaining additional evidence against you.
• Creating a legal strategy: A lawyer can identify a strategy through various techniques. Often, a defense involves challenging the legality of police actions, such as by identifying an illegal traffic stop or an illegal search. They may also challenge evidence that was mishandled or illegal, such as a misadministered chemical test.
• Negotiating for your interests: Ultimately, a lawyer can achieve an outcome that minimizes the negative penalties of a DUI charge. They do this through presenting their defense and relentlessly advocating for your DUI case. Outcomes they can achieve include:
  • Dismissed charges
  • Reduced charges
  • Lighter penalties
  • Alternative sentencing options

FAQs About Columbia, SC DUI Laws

Do You Lose Your License Immediately After a DUI in Columbia, SC?

While your license is not immediately suspended if you are arrested for a DUI in Columbia, SC, it can be lost in certain cases. If you refuse a chemical test or if your BAC was 0.15% or higher, your license is automatically suspended. After a DUI conviction, your license can be suspended, ranging from a six-month suspension for a first offense to a three-year suspension for a felony DUI. There are provisional licenses available in certain cases.

How Long Does a DUI in South Carolina Stay on Your Record?

A DUI conviction will permanently stay on your criminal record in South Carolina. However, it can usually only impact your driving record for 10 years. The lookback period for DUI and other similar offenses is 10 years for most offenses. Any DUI within that period can impact sentencing for future charges. However, since your criminal record is permanent, you may face employment, housing, or other consequences beyond 10 years.

What Is the Most Common Sentence for a First-Time DUI in Columbia, SC?

The most common sentence for a first-time DUI charge in Columbia, SC is between 48 hours and 30 days in jail. Your sentence can be affected by the circumstances of your case, such as your BAC or whether you caused any damage. In some cases, you may be permitted by the court to complete 48 hours of community service to avoid the minimum jail sentence. If you are worried about serving jail time, hire a DUI lawyer who can explore alternative options.

Can You Refuse a Chemical Test in South Carolina?

No, you cannot refuse a chemical test in South Carolina. The state has an Implied Consent Law, which requires drivers to submit to chemical testing if they are arrested on suspicion of a DUI. A chemical test can include breath, blood, urine, or other tests that determine the level of alcohol or other drugs in your system. Refusing a chemical test can lead to a license suspension and make it more difficult to defend against DUI charges.

Reach Out to a Columbia DUI Attorney

It can be easy to feel hopeless when charged with a DUI. However, a Columbia, SC DUI attorney can work to help you regain control over your future. Contact Deas Law Firm to speak with an experienced lawyer who can develop a legal strategy against DUI charges.

Contact Deas Law Firm Today

At Deas Law Firm, we work tirelessly for you to make sure you are fairly compensated on your personal injury case. From slip and fall cases or even catastrophic injury cases, Deas Law Firm is ready to fight for you and your rights. Call us today or fill out the online form to discuss your personal injury case.